The southeastern fires are officially a federal disaster. Here’s how survivors can ask for help
Evacuees settle in at the Eastern New Mexico University gymnasium Tuesday, June 18, 2024 after evacuating the Ruidoso area because of the South Fork and Salt fires. (Leah Romero / Source NM)
Mescalero Apache Tribe members and people who live in Lincoln County, New Mexico can now submit applications for federal disaster assistance in the wake of the South Fork and Salt fires.
Thursday, President Joe Biden granted federal help for the disaster zone that has destroyed thousands of buildings, killed at least two and is now suffering from flash flooding.
People can now ask for grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other recovery programs meant for individuals and business owners.
The website where people can apply for help online is here. Click the red button that reads “Let’s Get Started.”
Survivors can also use the FEMA mobile app to apply, or make an application over the phone by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
If you use a relay service, like video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
More information about disaster assistance for individuals affected by the fires is here.
The page to find the latest information about the federal disaster declaration now and in the future is here.
Toll-free, multilingual crisis support is available 24/7. Call or text 1-800-985-5990, or visit this website.
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